What You Need to Bring to Get a State ID

The Documents and Information You'll Need

A state ID requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The exact documents vary by state, but most ask for a birth certificate or passport for identity, a recent utility bill or lease for where you live, and your Social Security card or a tax document showing your number. Some states accept a driver's license as proof of identity instead of a birth certificate.

You'll also need to provide your full legal name, date of birth, and current address. If your name has changed through marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the document that shows the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or name change order. States keep these documents on file, so you won't take them home, but you do need to bring originals or certified copies.

The specific list differs between states. Before you go to your local DMV or ID office, check your state's website or call ahead to confirm what documents they accept, because some states have narrower rules than others. A few states, for example, accept a utility bill as proof of residency; others require a lease, mortgage statement, or government mail. Knowing the exact list saves a trip.

Key Takeaways

You need proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), proof of residency (utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number (card or tax document).
If your name has changed, bring the legal document that shows the change—marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Each state has its own list of acceptable documents, so check your state DMV website or call before you visit.
Bring originals or certified copies; the DMV will keep them on file and return what it doesn't need.
Some states accept a driver's license as proof of identity, which can shorten the list of documents you need.

Proof of Identity: What Documents Work

A birth certificate is the most common proof of identity for a state ID. It must be an official copy—either the original or a certified copy from the vital records office in the county or state where you were born. A photocopy or hospital copy will not work. If you don't have a birth certificate, a U.S. passport, passport card, or consular report of birth abroad are all accepted by most states.

Some states also accept a current or expired driver's license, a military ID, or a tribal ID as proof of identity. A few states will take a school ID or employee ID if it has your photo and signature, though this is less common. Check your state's rules, because what one state accepts another may not.

If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or, if you are a naturalized citizen, your naturalization certificate or Certificate of Citizenship. If you don't have any of these documents, you can order a birth certificate from the vital records office in your birth state, though this takes time and costs money.

Proof of Residency: Where You Live Now

Proof of residency shows that you actually live at the address you're putting on your ID. A utility bill in your name—electric, gas, water, or internet—dated within the last 60 days is the easiest option. A lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, or a property tax bill also work. Some states accept bank statements or insurance documents if they show your name and current address.

The document must be recent and in your name. If you just moved and the utility bill is still in the old tenant's name, or if you live with family and the bill is in someone else's name, you may need a different document. Some states accept a notarized letter from your landlord or a family member confirming you live there, though you should confirm this with your DMV first.

If you're homeless or living in a shelter, many states have workarounds. Call your local DMV to ask what documents they accept in your situation—some will take a shelter letter, a social services document, or a mail forwarding address from the post office.

Proof of Your Social Security Number

Your Social Security card is the simplest proof. If you don't have it, a tax return, W-2 form, or 1099 form showing your Social Security number works. Some states accept a Social Security Administration letter or a benefits statement. A few states will take a pay stub if it shows your full Social Security number, though many now mask it for privacy.

If you've never had a Social Security number, you'll need to explore for one first through the Social Security Administration. This takes a few weeks, so plan ahead. Bring your birth certificate and proof of identity to your local Social Security office, or explore online at ssa.gov if you have a my Social Security account.

Name Changes and Legal Documents

If you've married, divorced, or changed your name through a court order, bring the document that proves it. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or name change order must be an official copy from the court or vital records office. A photocopy or a document you printed from the internet will not work.

If you're in the middle of a name change and don't yet have the final court order, ask your DMV whether you can use a temporary document or whether you need to wait until the change is final. Some states will issue an ID with your current legal name and let you update it later; others require the final order before they'll issue the card.

Age and Citizenship Requirements

You must be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident to get a state ID. If you're a citizen, bring your birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate. If you're a permanent resident, bring your green card or a copy of your I-797 approval notice.

There is no minimum age for a state ID—some states issue them to children, though the rules vary. If you're under 18, a parent or guardian usually has to sign the process. Check your state's rules on age and parental consent before you go.

What Happens If You Don't Have a Document

If you're missing a birth certificate, you can order one from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. This usually costs $10 to $30 and takes one to four weeks by mail, though expedited options are often available for a higher fee. You can order online, by mail, or in person at the vital records office.

If you don't have a Social Security card and can't find a tax document, explore for a replacement card at your local Social Security office. Bring your birth certificate and photo ID. A replacement card is free and usually arrives in one to two weeks.

If you're missing proof of residency because you just moved, a recent utility bill in your name is fastest. If that's not available yet, ask your DMV whether they'll accept a lease, a bank statement, or a notarized letter from your landlord while you wait for the utility company to send a bill.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate instead of the original?

Most states require an official certified copy from the vital records office, not a photocopy. A certified copy has a raised seal and the office's signature. If you only have a photocopy, order a certified copy from the vital records office in your birth state before you go to the DMV.

What if my name on my birth certificate doesn't match my current legal name?

Bring both your birth certificate and the document that shows the name change—your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will use your current legal name on the ID and keep both documents on file.

Do I need to bring my original Social Security card or can I bring a copy?

Most states accept either the original or a copy. If you bring a copy, make sure it's clear and shows your full number. Some DMVs prefer the original to confirm it's real, so call ahead to ask what your local office prefers.

Can I use a bank statement as proof of residency if I don't have a utility bill?

Many states accept bank statements, but the rules vary. Some require the statement to be dated within the last 60 days; others accept older statements. Check your state DMV website or call to confirm whether a bank statement will work before you bring it.

What if I was born outside the United States?

Bring your U.S. passport, passport card, or consular report of birth abroad as proof of identity. If you're a naturalized citizen, bring your naturalization certificate or Certificate of Citizenship instead. You'll also need proof of residency and your Social Security number, just like anyone else.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.